Information and FAQs on Psychotherapy

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I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

Mental health should not be a stigma because it is an integral aspect of overall well-being, just as important as physical health. Everyone experiences mental health challenges at some point in their lives, whether due to stress, loss, trauma, or other factors. Acknowledging and addressing these challenges is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just as we seek medical help for physical ailments, seeking support for mental health issues is a responsible and necessary step towards health and wellness.

Stigmatizing mental health perpetuates harmful myths and prevents people from seeking the help they need. This can lead to worsening symptoms, reduced quality of life, and even severe consequences such as chronic mental health conditions or suicide. By normalizing mental health discussions, we encourage a supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and discussing their experiences.

Furthermore, mental health treatment has proven effective in helping people lead happier, more productive lives. Therapy, medication, and support systems can significantly improve one's mental health, just as treatments for physical illnesses do. Understanding and accepting mental health as a vital component of human health fosters empathy, reduces discrimination, and promotes a healthier society where everyone can thrive without fear of judgment.

Why shouldn’t I just take medication?

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

Counseling is beneficial in addition to medication because it addresses the underlying psychological and emotional aspects of mental health issues that medication alone may not resolve. While medication can alleviate symptoms, counseling helps individuals understand their thoughts, behaviors, and triggers, providing tools to manage and overcome challenges. This dual approach fosters long-term recovery and personal growth. Counseling also offers a supportive environment to explore and address root causes of distress, develop coping strategies, and build resilience, leading to a more comprehensive and sustainable improvement in mental health and overall well-being.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Is everything I say in therapy confidential?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy, and therapists are legally and ethically bound to keep your information private. However, there are exceptions, such as if there’s a risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases of abuse.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs. The prerequisites are that you need to show up and you are going to get out of therapy what you put it in. It sounds cliche, but it is true that we can only help you achieve your goals and you are the one who needs to put in the actual work. We may certainly make suggestions or assign homework and this is a critical part of your mental health journey. We encourage you to embrace the actions needed to change for you!

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take is different for each person. The duration of counseling varies depending on the individual’s needs and goals. Some people may find significant relief in a few sessions, while others might benefit from longer-term therapy over several months or years.

As a client, your treatment is ultimately up to you. Generally speaking, meeting once a week or bi-weekly is a good place to start and this can evolve over time. It is important to establish a sense of trust and rapport in the beginning but it is ultimately your call and your decision and this should be communicated in the intake. 

Length of treatment is also up to you. Your therapist might recommend continuing or ending therapy based on your progress and goals. Some people go to therapy for a few months and reach their goals or work out a difficult situation and others may continue in therapy for longer periods of time. 

How do I know if I need counseling?

You might consider counseling if you’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger; struggling with relationships; facing significant life changes; having difficulty functioning in daily life; or wanting to better understand yourself and your emotions.

What qualifications should a therapist have?

Therapists should be licensed mental health professionals, such as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), or Clinical Psychologists. Ensure they have a valid license in your state and are trained in the specific type of therapy you need.

How miuch does mental health therapy cost?

Please see our Rates and Insurance page!

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, and therapist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Psychologists typically have a Ph.D. or Psy.D. and provide therapy and psychological testing but generally cannot prescribe medication. Therapists or counselors often have master’s degrees and provide talk therapy.

Naxos Counseling FAQ's

Before beginning mental health therapy, we often experience a mix of emotions. Anxiety and apprehension are common as we may feel uncertain about opening up to a stranger or fear being judged. This is all completely normal and we are here to answer any questions you have. There might also be a sense of vulnerability and fear of facing painful memories or emotions. Even though it may feel a little uncomfortable, many people feel hopeful and relieved, anticipating support and the possibility of positive change. Some of us may also feel skeptical about whether therapy will help them. 

Mental Health Psychotherapy Richmond VA FAQs

These complex emotions highlight the courage it takes to seek help and the importance of finding a compassionate, understanding therapist to ease the transition into therapy. Please take a moment to read through our FAQ's and the rest of our website to get a good understanding about who we treat, our approach, and other general information. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns!

Good Faith Estimate

Under the No Surprises Act, health care providers need to give clients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the expected charges for medical services, including psychotherapy services. You have the right to be aware of any charges and to receive an estimate prior to receiving these services. You can ask for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service, or at any time during treatment. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) or how to dispute a bill, see your GFE document, or visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises. As always, each client may decide how long they would like to participate in mental health care and we will collaborate with you on a regular basis to determine how many sessions you may need.

Why Naxos Counseling?

It is important for clients to work with a therapist and group they trust and are comfortable with. Not all groups/therapists and clients are a good fit for each other depending on therapeutic orientation, client needs, level of care offered, expectations, client preferences, logistics, etc. We are here to offer the highest quality of individualized professional counseling services utilizing the very best therapeutic methods and interventions. Naxos Counseling exists as a therapeutic partner and creates a space for you to come and find relief and refreshment.